LAST RITES 4 Jan 2025 (Monday) 12.30pm: Cortège leaves from residence at SS11,Sikh Settlement, 35500, Bidor, Perak 1pm: Saskaar (cremation) at Indian/Sikh Cemetery Bidor
| Entry: 3 Jan 2025; Updated: 8 Jan 2025 | Source: Family
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Jaswinder Singh Ahluwalia (2nd from right) and his family – Photo: Supplied
By Jaswinder Singh Ahluwalia | Malaysia |
In 1983, I landed in Melbourne, Australia, on a chilly morning. It was a windy day and the sky was overcast. I took a cab from the airport to the University of Melbourne law students’ hostel in the busy Swanston Street.
At the hostel, I met the warden, a kind elderly white guy. He said he knew about Sikhs but had not seen one in Melbourne for decades. I learnt from him that, in 1983, there were very few Sikhs living in Melbourne.There were only a few scattered Sikh families then in that Aussie city.
After a short rest, I thought I will go out and look around. Out in the open outdoors, everything seemed grey dim and cold. I noticed there were no non-whites around. Coming from bright and sunny Malaysia, where we have Indians Chinese, Malays and also Europeans, it looked rather unwelcoming.
As I was walking along, a huge car pulled up alongside me on the busy road. The rear window glass rolled down and a Sardaar seated in the back seat called out to me. ‘Sat Sri Akal’. Now, that was sudden and a surprise.
After a short exchange, he invited me into the car. He introduced himself and said that he was going to the local Gurdwara. I felt safe and hopped in.
I learnt that he was from the Indian High Commission or Consulate. He had stopped when he saw a man in turban, a rare sight in Melbourne those days.
We drove to the Gurdwara where I met other Australian Sikhs including a few from Malaysia. It was as if some invisible hand was guiding me along. I began to feel more comfortable.
This fine gentleman Sardar and I became good friends and we spent a lot of time together after that. We would meet at the Gurdwara every Sunday morning and we kept in touch with each other for many years.
Seventeen year later in 2000, my eldest daughter, then just 20, wished Sat Sri Akal to a turbaned Sardar, a newly qualified ICAEW Chartered Accountant speaker from London whom she met at an accountancy examination refresher course in Singapore.
They became friends. He came to Malaysia to visit us. We found the Sardar to be a fine, smart, good looking, well spoken young man.
We, too, visited him while on holiday in UK and met with his family in London. It seemed to us as if we had met by some inexplicable guiding hand and we became close over time.
Two years later, my daughter married Sukhpreet and they settled in London. We have two lovely grandchildren, with the eldest now 17.
To me, my appearance as a Sikh and faith in the Guru and in the Sikh way, has given me subtle direction at important points when it mattered most and, of course, happiness. I cannot be anything other than thankful.
On this Gurpurab, I thank Waheguru Ji for his untold blessings. His blessings have come into my life quietly and unannounced.
Together with millions of fellow Sikhs all over the world I wish and pray for ‘Sarbat da Bhala’. May such blessings befall on everyone and all.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Perak state exco Sivanesan (5th from left) with Santokh Singh (3rd from left) and other representatives from Sikh gurdwaras and NGOs in Perak. Also present at the event on Dec 28, 2024, was Maim Nawar state assemblyperson Bawani Veraiah
By Asia Samachar | Malaysia |
Sikh gurdwaras and organsations in Perak received a total of RM2.95 million from the state and the federal government in 2024.
In 2024, the Perak state government collectively gave RM534,110 to the gurdwara and organisations like the Khalsa Diwan Malaysia (KDM).
Speaking at an event hosted by Perak state executive councillor A Sivanesan, KDM former president Santokh Singh Randhawa said the community was thankful for the allocation, but noted that the state allocation was not sufficient for 40 gurdwaras, 11 Punjabi Education Centres (PECs) and other Sikh-based NGOs in the state.
Also present at the event were Mohinder Singh, Narinder Singh, Kashvinder Singh Nurpuria and Jasbir Singh Nanuan.
The Ipoh-based KDM runs close to five dozen PECs nationwide. These centres hire part-time teachers and administrative staff as well as prepare teaching aids for Panjabi language classes, usually held over weekends at gurdwaras or other available centres.
Sivanesan, the elected state assemblyman for Sungkai, holds the portfolio of health, human resources and Indian community affairs under the current Perak state government under Mentri Besar Saarani Mohamad. He has appointed Baldip Singh, the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) division chief for Kampar, as the Sikh coordinator for Perak.
Sivanesan (2nd from right) with representives of Ipoh-based Persatuan Guru Kalgidhar Diwan, flanked by Baldip Singh (left), in an event in April 2024
Baldip said that the Federal Government under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has provided another RM200,000 to Sikhs in Perak.
The allocation was announced when Anwar attended a Vaisakhi open house in Ipoh on May 4, 2024, an event spearheaded by the KDM and Persatuan Guru Kalgidhar Diwan Malaysia (PGKDM).
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (4th from left) at the Vaisakhi Open House in Ipoh, Perak, on May 4, 2024 – Photo: Anwar Ibrahim Facebook
On top of that, he said the Ministry of Housing and Local Government has given about RM2 million directly to gurdwaras in Perak through the Rumah Ibadat Bukan Islam (RIBA) aid programme, with the latest being Gurdwara Sahib Tanjung Tualang receiving RM131,500 in December 2024.
“We thank both the State of Perak and the Federal Government for their aid for the year 2024. We hope our Kerajaan Madani keeps the aid flowing for 2025 to help and assist the minorities including the Sikhs,” Baldip said in a statement emailed to Asia Samachar.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
The Battle of Chamkaur – Illustration by Gurpreet Singh Sembhi
By Dr. Devinder Pal Singh| Opinion |
The events of Saka Chamkaur Sahib and Saka Fatehgarh Sahib, significant chapters in Sikh history, exemplify courage, sacrifice, commitment to principles, and resilience. In 1705, at Chamkaur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his small band of warriors, including his sons, stood against a vast Mughal army, displaying extraordinary bravery. Similarly, in 1705 at Fatehgarh Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons, Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, were martyred for refusing to abandon their faith, embodying the ultimate sacrifice for freedom of thought and expression. These events offer profound lessons that resonate in the modern era, emphasizing the importance of ethical leadership, standing against oppression, and promoting social justice. The lessons from these sacrifices underscore the need for courage in adversity, unity, and selflessness and highlight the transformative power of youth. In today’s world, where societal challenges such as inequality, injustice, and conflict persist, the values demonstrated by these historical figures inspire individuals and communities to work toward a more equitable and harmonious society. By embracing these principles, modern society can cultivate resilience, empower future generations, and foster global peace and solidarity, ensuring the relevance of these sacrifices in shaping a better world.
Introduction
Saka Chamkaur Sahib and Saka Fatehgarh Sahib are two of the most poignant and significant moments in Sikh history, encapsulating the ideals of sacrifice, courage, and unyielding commitment to justice [1-4]. These events occurred in the early 18th century during the Mughal Empire’s persecution of Sikhs. Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his followers faced overwhelming odds to protect their faith and uphold righteousness [5-7]. At Chamkaur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his warriors, despite being vastly outnumbered, fought valiantly against a much larger Mughal army. At the same time, his two elder sons, Baba Ajit Singh Ji and Baba Jujhar Singh Ji, sacrificed their lives in the battle [8-9].
In a parallel display of extraordinary bravery, the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, chose martyrdom at Fatehgarh Sahib, refusing to renounce their faith despite severe torture [10-11]. These sacrifices, though tragic, have become symbols of unwavering devotion to truth, justice, and religious freedom. The legacy of these martyrs continues to offer invaluable lessons in resilience, leadership, and selflessness. These lessons remain highly relevant in the modern era, offering guidance for addressing contemporary challenges such as injustice, oppression, and inequality.
Saka Chamkaur Sahib: A Saga of Supreme Sacrifice
Saka Chamkaur Sahib occurred in 1705, when Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, and his small band of 40 warriors made a valiant stand against a massive Mughal army of several tens of thousand soldiers at the mud fort of Chamkaur Sahib [8-9]. Guru Ji and his warriors displayed unparalleled bravery. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Guru Ji’s warriors fought fearlessly, sacrificing their lives for the greater cause of protecting dharma and upholding justice. Among those who laid down their lives were Guru Ji’s two elder sons, Baba Ajit Singh Ji (18 years old) and Baba Jujhar Singh Ji (14 years old), whose bravery at such a young age is revered to this day.
Saka Fatehgarh Sahib: The Immortal Martyrdom of Sahibzadas
Saka Fatehgarh Sahib, occurring in December 1705, is another heart-wrenching episode in Sikh history. Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s two younger sons, Baba Zorawar Singh Ji (9 years old) and Baba Fateh Singh Ji (7 years old), were captured by the Mughals and subjected to immense pressure to convert to Islam. Despite their tender ages, they refused to abandon their faith and accepted death over dishonour [10-11]. The Sahibzadas were bricked alive and ultimately martyred, showcasing extraordinary courage and commitment to their principles. Their grandmother, Mata Gujri Ji, also attained martyrdom in captivity, emphasizing the family’s unshakable faith and resilience.
Core Lessons from the Sacrifices
Both Saka Chamkaur Sahib and Saka Fatehgarh Sahib demonstrate unwavering adherence to principles even in the face of death. Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his companions exemplified unity and collective resilience, proving that even a small, determined group can stand against overwhelming odds.
Battle of Chamkaur
The sacrifices of the Guru’s family illustrate that true strength lies in staying true to one’s values, regardless of external pressures. The unparalleled bravery of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, his family, and the Sikh warriors serves as a timeless reminder that courage is not the absence of fear but the will to act righteously despite it.
These episodes also reflect the Sikh ethos of selflessness, where individual lives were willingly sacrificed to preserve justice, equality, and truth. The young Sahibzadas’s exemplary courage highlights youth’s potential as harbingers of change and leaders in challenging times.
Relevance in the Modern Era
The sacrifices at Chamkaur Sahib and Fatehgarh Sahib underscore the importance of ethical leadership. In a world increasingly driven by self-interest and corruption, the Guru’s example of prioritizing collective well-being over personal gain offers a blueprint for responsible governance. The courage displayed in these sagas inspires individuals and societies to resist oppression and tyranny. Whether it is fighting for human rights, environmental justice, or freedom of speech, the spirit of resistance remains vital.
Injustice persists in various forms today, from systemic discrimination to exploitation. The sacrifices at Chamkaur Sahib and Fatehgarh Sahib inspire a commitment to justice, urging individuals to stand up against wrongdoings. The Sahibzadas’ martyrdom reminds us of the transformative potential of young minds. Encouraging the youth to embrace courage, integrity, and compassion can help build a just and equitable society.
Mata Gujri and the younger two Sahibzaade. In 1705 at Fatehgarh Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons, Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, were martyred for refusing to abandon their faith, embodying the ultimate sacrifice for freedom of thought and expression.
In the face of global crises like pandemics, climate change, and socio-political unrest, the resilience displayed by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his followers serves as a guiding light. Their ability to remain steadfast under extreme adversity teaches modern society the value of persistence and faith. Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings and sacrifices transcend religious boundaries, emphasizing universal values such as equality, compassion, and respect for diversity. These principles are crucial in fostering harmony in today’s multicultural world.
Applications in Daily Life and Society
Drawing inspiration from these historical events, individuals and organizations can work toward eradicating social inequalities, promoting education, and ensuring the rights of marginalized communities. The stories of Saka Chamkaur Sahib and Saka Fatehgarh Sahib can be integrated into educational curricula to instill values of courage, sacrifice, and resilience in future generations.
The Guru’s family demonstrated unparalleled unity and mutual support. In an age where familial ties are often strained, their example encourages stronger relationships built on trust, love, and shared values. The sacrifices remind individuals of their responsibility toward society. Whether it is voting, volunteering, or advocating for social causes, every action contributes to a better world. The universal lessons of these sacrifices encourage global peace, urging nations and communities to resolve conflicts through dialogue and mutual respect rather than violence.
Inspiration for Personal Growth
The sacrifices at Chamkaur Sahib and Fatehgarh Sahib offer profound lessons for personal development. They teach individuals to (i) Develop a steadfast commitment to personal goals and ethical standards, even when faced with challenges. (ii) Overcome fear and uncertainty by taking bold steps toward self-improvement and societal contribution. (iii) Uphold integrity and values, even when it demands personal sacrifices. (iv) Work for the betterment of others, understanding that true fulfillment lies in serving humanity.
Conclusion
The sacrifices made during Saka Chamkaur Sahib and Saka Fatehgarh Sahib are not only pivotal moments in Sikh history but also timeless lessons that continue to resonate with profound relevance in the modern world. These events highlight the unparalleled courage, selflessness, and commitment to righteousness demonstrated by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, his family, and his followers. Their sacrifices show that pursuing justice, equality, and truth often requires immense personal cost, but such selflessness makes enduring change possible. The courage to stand against oppression, the willingness to sacrifice for the greater good, and the ability to remain steadfast in one’s values, even in the face of death, offer crucial guidance for individuals and societies today.
The principles of unity, resilience, and ethical leadership exemplified during these events provide potent lessons for addressing contemporary global issues such as injustice, inequality, and social division. We can overcome modern challenges by fostering a society rooted in these values and building a more just, compassionate, and harmonious world. The empowerment of youth, the promotion of social justice, and the need for global peace all find their foundation in the lessons derived from these sacrifices. As we continue to face personal, societal, and global adversities, the legacy of Saka Chamkaur Sahib and Saka Fatehgarh Sahib serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, guiding us toward a future grounded in integrity, courage, and collective progress.
References
S.G.P.C. Amritsar. (n.d.). Sri guru Gobind Singh Ji. Retrieved from https://sgpc.net/ten-guru-sahibs/guru-gobind-singh-sahib/
Gill, T., Sidhu, D. S., (2021). Sahibzade Zorawar Singh & Fateh Singh: The Valiant Sons of Guru Gobind Singh. Ist Edition. Singh Brothers. Amritsar. India. ISBN: 978-93-82887-78-2
Kaur, L. (2016, Dec. 28). The Untold Story of Mata Gujri Kaur & the Shoteh Sahibzadeh. Kaur Life. https://kaurlife.org/2016/12/28/untold-story-mata-gujri-kaur-shoteh-sahibzadeh/
Dr. D. P. Singh, M.Sc., Ph.D. is Director, Center for Understanding Sikhism, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. He is a physicist by training, a teacher by profession and a writer by choice. He specializes in writing on Science, Religion and Environmental topics. Currently, he is working as Director, CanBridge Learning & Educational Consultant to various educational institutions in Canada. Email: drdpsn@gmail.com
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Manmohan Singh and a Rupee note with his signature – Illustration: R. Rajesh/The Hindu
By Tarlochan Singh | Opinion |
In free India there has been only one person who has held top Government positions and the only non-politician who could occupy the chair of Prime Minister of India and that too twice. This great son of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, passed away on 26th December in New Delhi.
Born in 1932 in a village called Gah in Jhelum district (Pakistan), he studied in the village school and later on in Khalsa school, Chakwal and passed metric from Peshawar. My maternal grandmother was from this village and I had gone there in 1943. It is located on a small hillock with mud huts and few Pucca houses. Due to Partition of the country in 1947, his family came to Amritsar as refugee.
He did his M.A. in Economics from Government College, Hoshiarpur and got a study scholarship. He set a landmark by getting Ph.D from both Cambridge and Oxford Universities. He became Professor in Delhi School of Economics and later joined the World Bank, Washington.
Knowing his reputation as an cconomist, Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister of India, appointed him Advisor Ministry of Commerce in 1971. This was the start of his brilliant carrier in the Central Government. He was soon shifted as Advisor Ministry of Finance.
He was so successful that he was made Governor Reserve Bank of India. His name appeared on the Indian currency notes. After completion of the term he was appointed Vice Chairman Planning Commission of India where he handled with all State Governments and set the ball rolling of the development in the Country. Next position was Economic Advisor to the Prime Minister of India. UNO invited him to Geneva (Switzerland) to be Chairman of South Commission where he interacted with various countries.
Manmohan Singh (right) with Tarlochan Singh at an event in 2018 – Photo: Tarlochan Singh
The newly elected Prime Minister Narshima Rao appointed him as Finance Minister in 1991. India at that time was almost a bankrupt and he brought the country out of poverty and made it again shinning in the world. Big Industries started operating again, foreigners rushed back and started setting up factories. It is recorded that India became free from political slavery in 1947 but it could get Economic freedom when Dr. Manmohan Singh became Finance Minister.
He got praise from all sections of society while presenting the budget every year. He was member of the Upper House Rajya Sabha and remained leader of the opposition when Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji was Prime Minister.
When Congress won the Lok Sabha elections in 2004, Sonia Gandhi preferred Dr. Manmohan Singh as the Prime Minister instead of herself. He headed the collation Government having obstacles from the alliance partners but his humble nature, listening to everyone, honesty and foreign fame made him successful. He became the Prime Minister of India twice.
The historic contribution was making friendship with the United States and getting the nuclear deal approved by the US Senate and Indian Parliament. This was a biggest step for India’s security and development, though it was opposed by many political parties. News stories appeared how he involved leading persons of Indian Diaspora to win over the senators. Dr. Manmohan Singh himself spent days in Washington to convince President Bush for this deal.
Dr. Manmohan Singh tried his best to make a permanent friendship agreement with Pakistan. He had several meetings with General Musharraf, President of Pakistan. People expected that eternal cold war would soon end, but his own party did not stand with him and the plan could not succeed. He could not even visit his ancestral village Gaha.
This is the first time in India that a non-political person and belonging to Minority Sikh Community could achieve such high positions. He remained a true follower of Guru Nanak and always adopted His Philosophy of making everyone a friend and to be helpful to common man. He provided maximum help to Maharashtra Government in the improvement of Hazur Sahib, Nanded in 2008 on Guru Gobind Singh centenary celebrations. Guru Granth Centre in Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar is his humble gift. He remained a member of the Rajya Sabha till the end.
S. Nirmal Singh (Florida USA) known scholar, has written “the extraordinary contributions of Dr. Manmohan Singh to India’s progress and development is unique. As a scholar, economist, and statesman, his journey from a humble background to becoming the architect of India’s economic reforms is truly inspiring. His dedication to serving the nation, coupled with his integrity and humility, makes him a role model for future generations”.
I’m happy to record that unprecedented praise to the departing leaders has been showered on him by the entire media in India and across the world.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
A political gathering in Panjab in December 2024, organised by the AAP – Photo: Bhagwant Mann Facebook
By Santokh Singh Bains | Opinion |
In a democratic country like India, the numerical strength of every religious minority is of great significance. But it seems that unlike other religious minorities like the Muslims and the Christians, India’s Sikhs have so far failed to comprehend the significance of the numerical strength as far as the Sikh minority is concerned.
India’s new census was originally scheduled for 2021, but it was considerably delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and some other factors. Now, the new census is expected to begin sometime in 2025, and conclude in 2026.
Percentage-wise, the Sikh population of India has been declining continuously due to various factors. In 2001, Sikhs were 1.87% of India’s total population; in 2011, their population percentage declined to 1.72%. As regards the Sikh population of Punjab, it was 59.91% of the state’s total population in 2001; it declined to 57.69% in 2011. In the new census that will be conducted in 2025-26, the percentage-wise population of Sikhs may further decline significantly in Punjab mainly due to rapid Christianization in this state. It would not be farfetched to say that the percentage population of Sikhs in Punjab may fall below 50 soon (if it has not already come down to that level).
India’s Muslims, who constitute a large minority population of the country, successfully exert great pressure on the political parties to address their concerns and include them in their policy making. This usually leads to increased allocation of funds for their welfare programs in several states. Also, Muslims are the majority community in Jammu and Kashmir.
As regards Christians of India, their population is rising rapidly all over the country. India’s three Northeastern states – Nagaland, Mizoram and Meghalaya – are already Christian majority provinces. Due to Punjab-based Christian missionaries’ proselytization activities on a war footing since last several years, Punjab’s present Christian population is probably around 45 lakhs (about 15 percent of the state’s population). It is really ironic that there are over 700 churches in Amritsar district alone where premier Sikh institutions like the Akal Takhat, the SGPC and Chief Khalsa Dewan are located. Asia’s largest and the world’s fourth largest church is being constructed in Jalandhar at a cost of about Rupees 2,000 crores. As anticipated by several Christian bodies of Punjab, this state is definitely moving speedily towards becoming a Christian majority state in future. Given their continuously rising population, Punjab’s Christians are now demanding representation in state’s Legislative Assembly; they are also demanding 2 percent reservation for them in Punjab’s government jobs.
There are more than 5 crores Sikligars and Vanjaras in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. Also, there are about one crore Satnamis settled in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh. While about 20,000 Johris live in Maharashtra, and Gujarat, another 20,000 Tharus are settled in Uttar Pradesh. All of them are basically Sikh, but due to the apathy of mainstream Sikhs and the absence of proper Sikh Dharam Parchar amongst them, their links with Sikhism have weakened. It is time for us to embrace them as our co-religionists, and provide them with proper help and guidance in various spheres like education, health, vocational training etc. Also, proper arrangements should be made to teach them Punjabi language and Gurbani Kirtan. Wherever necessary, new gurdwaras should be established for them.
In his recently published book titled Exploring the Sikh Roots in Eastern India, Jagmohan Singh Gill has provided exhaustive information about various rural and urban areas in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh where there are thousands of Sehajdharis, Nanakpanthis, and followers of numerous Udasi and Nirmala Deras. If proper Sikh Dharam Parchar is carried out amongst them with sincerity, many of them may be formally brought into the fold of Sikhism.
It is crystal clear that Sikligars, Vanjaras, Lobanas, Satnamis, Johris, Tharus, Nanakpanthis, Sindhis, and followers of various Udasi and Nirmala Deras are not counted as Sikhs in India’s census. This position needs to change now. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), other important gurdwara management committees, and various important Sikh organisations should come forward to ensure that all members of different communities mentioned above are listed as Sikhs in the country’s upcoming census. In case of poor and uneducated Nanakpanthis and others, a lot depends on the enumerators on the ground. So the Sikh leaders should be very vigilant in such cases to ensure that the concerned persons are listed as Sikhs.
Thus, in India’s next census, the population of Sikhs should appear as approximately 7 crores.
If we don’t wake up today, tomorrow may be too late.
Santokh Singh Bains is a Chicago based writer and free lance journalist. His debut book titled Sikhs, Sikhism and the World was published in 2019. He can be reached at santokhbains713@gmail.com
* This is the opinion of the writers, organisation or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Asia Samachar.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Manmohan Singh. Insert: Manmohan flanked by Sonia Gandhi, with Indira Ghandi in the background photo
By Gurnam Singh | Opinion |
Along with many others in India and across the word, Sikhs too mourns the loss of Dr. Manmohan Singh, but do so with mixed emotions. His small physique and softly spoken manner called to mind the words of Mahatma Gandhi who said, “In a gentle way, you can shake the world,” for beneath this unassuming, softy spoken exterior lay an inner strength and a giant intellect that reshaped India’s destiny.
A visionary economist, statesman, and scholar, Dr Singh passed away on 26 December 2024 at the age of 92. Born in Gah, West Punjab (now in Pakistan), his life story was one of humble beginnings transformed by an unyielding pursuit of excellence.
Dr. Singh’s intellectual journey was extraordinary. He completed his early education in Punjab before earning a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Panjab University in 1952. His academic brilliance took him to the University of Cambridge, where he earned a First Class Honours degree in Economics in 1957. Dr. Singh further honed his expertise at the University of Oxford, obtaining a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Economics in 1962 with a thesis on India’s export competitiveness. This solid academic foundation cemented his reputation as a brilliant economist and thinker.
Before entering the political arena, Dr. Singh held several prestigious roles. He taught at Panjab University and the Delhi School of Economics, shaping young minds with his scholarly insights. His foray into public service began with a stint at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in 1966. Later, he returned to India and served in various capacities, including Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (1982–1985), and Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission (1985–1987).
Dr. Singh’s transformative role came in 1991 when he was appointed India’s Finance Minister during a period of severe economic crisis. With a calm demeanor and incisive intellect, he spearheaded bold reforms that liberalized India’s economy, setting the stage for its emergence as a global powerhouse. His work during this period earned him widespread respect as the chief architect of India’s economic liberalization.
In 2004, Dr. Singh became India’s 13th Prime Minister, serving two consecutive terms until 2014. As the first Sikh to hold this esteemed position, he became a symbol of representation for the Sikh community and brought dignity and grace to the office.
While his leadership was celebrated for fostering economic growth and stability, it also faced criticism, particularly on issues of justice for Sikhs and Punjab. As Finance Minister in 1993, he made controversial remarks denying human rights abuses against Sikhs. Moreover, as PM, his decision to appoint individuals implicated in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, such as Jagdish Tytler, Kamal Nath, and Sajjan Kumar, to prominent positions further deepened resentment. Though in 2005 he formally apologized for the 1984 Sikh genocide, many viewed his efforts as insufficient, lacking the tangible pursuit of justice through trials, convictions, and reparations. And his silence on issues like the 2004 turban ban in France and plight of Punjab, including water disputes and farmer grievances, amplified criticism.
The British political Enoch Powell famously said that “all political careers end in failure”. However, while being the humble person he was, Dr Singh would be the first to admit his own failings, he leaves behind a legacy that is as complex as it is monumental. His widely recognised legacy fly both left and right wing commentators was to reshaped India from a third world to a first world economy. And unlike most India politicians who are sooner or later embroiled in corruption, he brought quiet dignity to the highest office in the land.
For some of his critics, his tenure was marked by difficult compromises and unfulfilled hopes, particularly for the Sikh community. For those who mourn him, his life serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between personal integrity, political constraints, and the weight of history. Ultimately, history will be the judge but one can hope that his passing will inspire future generations to embrace the courage needed to right historical wrongs.
Gurnam Singh is an academic activist dedicated to human rights, liberty, equality, social and environmental justice. He is an Associate Professor of Sociology at University of Warwick, UK. He can be contacted at Gurnam.singh.1@warwick.ac.uk
* This is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily represent the views of Asia Samachar.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Kavita (right) and her mum Manjit Kaur launching the Our Himalayan Rose on Dec 7, 2024 – Photo: YSA
By Asia Samachar | Singapore |
Newly launched book ‘Our Himalayan Rose: My dearest Nanima, my heartbeat‘ attempts to provide a practical guide for caregivers of dementia patients in Singapore.
The 124-page book, published by Partridge Publishing Singapore in September, intertwines intimate family stories with actionable insights for caregivers and policymakers, offering hope and strategies to navigate the complexities of dementia care.
“It’s more than just a book; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and love that defines the caregiving journey. It’s also a call to action for policymakers to create systems that better support dementia patients and their caregivers,” author Kavita Ichaa Dawn Malhotra told an audience at the launch of the book at the Singapore Khalsa Association (SKA) on Dec 7.
The event was supported by the Young Sikh Association (YSA) and the Sikh Welfare Council (SIWEC).
Originally intended as a therapeutic endeavour to heal from the loss of her maternal grandmother (Nanima), Kavita said the project evolved into a comprehensive guide offering caregivers practical tips and policy recommendations to enhance the quality of life for dementia patients and their families.
Kavita is a positive psychology practitioner with a Masters in Applied Positive Psychology, a certified NLP practitioner and coach, as well as a hypnotist practitioner and well-being coach.
Kavita and her mother Manjit Kaur then took part in a panel discussion along with dementia advocate Emily Ong and neuroscience and motor control specialist Associate Professor Dr. Teo Wei Peng. Sikh Welfare Council (SIWEC) Chairman Manmohan Singh was the moderator.
Ong, who has been diagnosed with young-onset dementia, shared her journey, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, empowerment, and advocacy for individuals living with dementia. On his part, Dr Teo Wei Peng discussed dementia care vis a vis its practical applications for improving patient outcomes.
Manjit, who also served as the book’s editor, offered accounts of their caregiving journey, emphasising the challenges, rewards and advocacy themes central to the book.
L-R: Panel discussion moderator Manmohan Singh with Dr Teo, Emily Ong, Manjit Kaur and author Kavita at the book launch of Our Himalayan Rose on Dec 7. 2024 – Photo: YSA
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
SNSM’s annual camp for 2024 underway at Khalsa Land in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Malaysia – Photo: SNSM
ByJagdesh Singh | Opinion |
The cacophany of excited voices, clattering of steel plates and cups, heavy downpouring rain battering the roofs, can be overwhelming to the auditory senses. But the life energy manifested from the joyful conversations helped eased the mild discomfort. As I chew my last morcel of roti with cabbage cauliflower curry, I can’t help but wonder at how magical that instant was in the Langgar Hall.
I’ve been attending this annual Gurmat Parchaar Samelan camps, organised by the Sikh Naujawan Sabha Malaysia (SNSM), for more than half my life, as participant child, as participant teenager and as an adult volunteer cooking and then teaching. You can certainly imagine the so many bonds and relationships that have been built over the many years. So many faces, so many smiles, so many laughs. Some are familiar faces I only see after 12 months every year, some become close friends that share my happiness and sadness even more than my sibling sister.
My journey as a Sikh, learning from the volunteering lecturers as a young participant and then learning from the children I had imparted my understanding knowledge to as a lecturer, has been anchored by all these Samelan camps throughout the years.
My journey as a husband and as a father had many foundational bricks laid upon for me to look back at and learn from, also through these Samelan camps.
We celebrated rather jokingly with one such friend who participated in his first Samelan held in Taiping way back in 1974, half a century ago.
We also celebrated the lives of two dear good friends who left us from this world earlier this year leaving a huge vacuum as volunteers who empowered generations of children to becoming outstanding Sikhs.
Only through this loss, and upon reflection, that I personally can say with conviction that these relationships have been of greater value than any academic lessons about Sikhisms learned from these Samelans. Don’t get me wrong, the Sikh knowledge or Gyan gained formed my inward and outward being as a Sikh, but the friendships, the brotherships, the bonds became tremendous support for me through thick and thin.
Perhaps this was the Goddess of Good Fortune smiling on me, and in isolation only within my circle of life to have these relationships built. I wished the same good fortune may fall upon my family, especially my daughters.
It was during the COVID-19 lockdowns that I saw this wish manifested into reality. The friendships they formed over the many Samelans since they were as young as 5 years of age was seen clearly. Boys and girls of the same age kept in touch with them, emotionally supporting each other as they navigated through the days of the pandemic.
SNSM’s annual camp for 2024 underway at Khalsa Land in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Malaysia – Photo: SNSM
Till today, their strong bond is apparent. Still communicating with each other, advising each other into early adulthood, navigating through tough challenges as they come while being in different countries and in different time zones.
Most outsiders view the Samelans as some indoctrination grounds to get children to being conservative fundamental Sikhs. That may be so, as the lessons we impart onto them are centered around the Sikh way of life, based from the Sikh Code of Conduct (Sikh Reht Maryada). Our methods of teaching have evolved over the many years, our styles to inspire have also changed.
But the life lasting relationships and friendships are the true diamonds, priceless with no value for barter. Birds of a feather flock together for life. In our Sikh tradition, the community we are part of determines our journey towards our Creator. We call this as Satsang. For one week, every year in December, we form a Satsang for our children, that will remain their Satsang even after the Samelans ends.
Until the next Samelan next year, we shall meet, my dear friend, brother and sister.
Jagdesh Singh, a Kuala Lumpur-based executive with a US multinational company, is a father of three girls who are as opinionated as their mother
* This is the opinion of the writer, organisation or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Asia Samachar.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh signs the guest book in the Blue Room of the White House in Washington, US, on November 24, 2009, during an official visit. In the back is President Barack Obama. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)
By Asia Samachar | India |
Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who governed the South Asian country for two terms and liberalised its economy in an earlier stint as finance minister, has died. He was 92.
Manmohan, an economist-turned-politician who also served as the governor of the Central Bank of India, was ailing and admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi late on Thursday.
He was India’s first Sikh PM and the architect of the big-bang economic reforms that set the stage for the country’s emergence as a global powerhouse.
His health deteriorated due to “sudden loss of consciousness at home”, the hospital said in a statement. He was “being treated for age-related medical conditions”, the statement added.
A mild-mannered technocrat, Manmohan served as India’s PM from 2004 to 2014 and earning a reputation as a man of great personal integrity.
He adopted a low profile after relinquishing the post of prime minister. He is survived by his wife and three daughters.
Manmohan, widely regarded for his intellect and vision, was sworn in as India’s Prime Minister on May 22, 2004, following the Congress Party’s victory in the general elections. He took office for a second term on the same date in 2009, reported the Economic Times.
Born on September 26, 1932, in a village in Punjab province in undivided India, Singh completed his matriculation from Punjab University in 1948, laying the foundation for an illustrious career.
He also implemented the Right to Information Act (2005) that strengthened transparency and accountability by granting citizens access to public information. His National Food Security Act (2013) ensured subsidized food grains for nearly two-thirds of India’s population.
His academic credentials were unparalleled. After completing his studies in Punjab, he earned a First Class Honours degree in Economics from the University of Cambridge in 1957, followed by a D. Phil in Economics from Nuffield College, Oxford, in 1962.
Manmohan, called India’s “reluctant prime minister” due to his shyness and preference for being behind the scenes, was considered an unlikely choice to lead the world’s biggest democracy. But when Congress leader Sonia Gandhi led her party to a surprise victory in 2004, she turned to Singh to be prime minister.
Famed for his trademark sky-blue turbans and home-spun white kurta pyjamas, Singh became the country’s first non-Hindu prime minister. He served a rare full two terms as prime minister in India’s tumultuous politics and is credited with spurring the rapid economic growth that lifted tens of millions of Indians from poverty, reported The Guardian.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
